Further on the subject of preservation, a listener calls in with information on a new music series from Xauen Music’s Arabesque Chicago featuring a different region of the Middle East each month.

Antonia mentions Flamenco 2006!—a monthlong festival of flamenco arts that will include a performance by guitarist Vicente Amigo. It kicks off January 23.

Edward is looking forward to a series of concerts at several locations to benefit Chicago soundman Gary “Elvis” Schepers. Jon Langford, Robbie Fulks, Jeff Tweedy, Devil in a Woodpile, Califone, and Edith Frost are among the many musicians performing.